Health Tips for Spring

Spring is a period of renewal and new growth. It is generally accompanied by the Wind that blows freely here and there carrying aromas,  pollen, and other small objects. The season is said to correlate to Wood, which represents this type of upward and outward growth. The color of the season is the green that is springing up all around us. It corresponds to the Liver and Gallbladder organ functionality in traditional Chinese medicine. The liver also corresponds to the eyes and tears as well as the nails of the fingers and feet. It is said to govern the sinews and all tissue that relate to movement such as ligaments and muscle. The related emotional spirit is 'anger' and other emotions such as frustration and depression. Sour taste is said to enter into the liver just as sour sap flows through trees.

At this time of the year, people may find themselves at the mercy of the 'wind' or more precisely the small unseen objects carried by the wind such as pollen, spores and fragrances. This sensitivity can find its outlet through allergies such as allergic rhinitis, asthma, and certain forms of contact dermatitis. Also people may find themselves more easily provoked and irritated by their environment.

Since allergies are such a major problem, the best remedy is to prevent their onset. Chinese herbal medicine has a number of ways to prepare for this using various formulas to strengthen our immune or defense systems. It is best to start their usage by the beginning of February or approximately 8 weeks before the onset of the allergy season. Also, it is important to let go, trying to relax more, in order to 'flow' with our environment more completely. People who try too hard to control their lives are the ones who are most easily influenced by the negative factors that accompany the spring.

Flexibility is the major keyword for this season. Try using limbering and stretching forms of exercise to remain balanced. Eat foods that tend to be lighter in texture and slightly 'sour' and a little 'bitter' in taste. Although many nutritionists now recommend eating a lot of 'whole' foods, remember that all foods should be lightly cooked in order to break down the cell membranes so that we can better take advantage of their nutrient. Unlike other animals, our digestive systems do not possess the ability to breakdown cellulose, therefore the heat from cooking starts this process for us. And in keeping with the color of the season, greens of various kinds can play an important part in our dietary program.

Like all seasons of the year, we need to remain in balance with the weather, not fight against it. I hope you have an enjoyable and healthy spring.

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